Frequently asked questions

Silly Questions

What is creativity?
First of all, creativity is not innovation, nor is it art. These are uses of creativity. Creativity is a whole-brain process that allows the brain to make connections between things percieved in the universe and memories to form new ideas that form decisions that lead to implimentation.

Can anyone be creative?
Yes. It is how human beings (and many animals) think, learn, make decisions, interact with and change their environment.

OK, but can anyone be REALLY creative. A genius like Mozart, Leonardo or Einstein?
The greatest geniuses in history have all said that anyone can attain 'genius' through perseverence and hard work. Since they are the geniuses that we out on a pedestal and admire for their genius, who are we to say they’re wrong? Either they’re right so we can be too, or they’re wrong which makes us even better than them so we are too. Logic.

Come on, you're born a genius or you're not and that's it?
If you want to believe that then it will be true for you. The evidence suggests otherwise. Everyone is born with certain characteristics that may give them a slight leading edge that can be developed. Some people are born really tall. It doesn't mean that short people can't play basketball. It just means they have to jump higher or just play in a different way. 'Gifts' that we may or may not have been born with worth in the same way. So-called ‘talent’ is a different thing and not really what we’re talking about here yet people get bogged down with it. This actually one of the secrets to being more creative, more productive and happier: stop comparing yourself to everyone else and compare yourself only with what you’re capable of doing.

In my talks I ‘prove’ that everyone can draw (I use drawing but I could use any skill based task). Some people then worry that they still can’t draw because they can’t draw like Leonardo or paint like Van Gogh. Again, they’re worrying about other people and what they can do. The point isn’t to be the best at everything, that would be a foolish waste of time that underminds confidence. They point is to know what you’re capable of and decide what to focus on to be the best at. Some people still don’t accept accept the facts even when they’re pointed out. I don’t have to be the best driver in the world to dive my car. I haven’t chosen it as something to excel in, just as something I need to be able to be competent at. The way people treat their creativity is like them saying ‘well, if I can’t win the Grand Prix there’s no point in me learning to drive’.

Sensible Questions

What is your area of expertise?
I explain and train the process of creativity allowing delegates to access and release their own innovation when they need it, generating better ideas, improving productivity, finding better ways of doing things. I inspire them to be more confident in their abilities by helping them to understand what appear as complex ideas, in a simple and practical way.

With my practical experience in design and brand creation I explain how design works for business, how to create, develop and use branding to promote a business, programme or product.
Why now? Why is your topic of particular interest and relevance to our people today?

Change is happening faster than ever before. The threats to every business are more pernicious than ever before. Someone can do it cheaper or faster and there is so much competition. Being able to think differently, to generate better ideas and find better ways of doing things is the only way to survive in 21st century business. Leaders that can understand and operate in right-brain directed thinking - that is to embrace empathy, intuition and a holistic view with precision – will not only be able to cope with change, but will be able to define it.

Branding has become even more of a powerful selling tool in the increasing crowded marketplace as well as us now living in a more brand-conscious and design-literate age. Customers take more of an active part in buying now than ever before. In fact we are in the position where we are no longer selling but rather assisting customers to buy. The brand is at the forefront of this process. It is our greatest sales tool and needs to be understood.

Why you? How does your approach differ from others?
There are very few speakers who concentrate on creativity, each interpreting the topic from a different angle. Usually they come at it as an add-on to their main topic which may be from their marketing or managerial background. I come from a creative background.

I approach creativity from a living, experiential basis. It is not something I have observed, it is something that I have lived, that defines all aspects of my life. I have real, tangible, practical examples and applications. I am able to explain from first principles. Having both a scientific and artistic background I am always holistic and flexible in my approach, covering every angle. I always create an open, approachable and high energy session which is fun and funny and where everyone is able to make a contribution. People have described my sessions as a game that I invite others to join in and play.

How do you do it?
I explain the concepts through real life stories, including the delegates own stories.
I have creativity games for the whole group and many practical tasks for each delegate to take part in. I explain how brain processes work and techniques for controlling them.
I use specially written songs, and always use humour throughout.
Outcomes. By the end of your session what will the audience have acquired?

• They will have experienced some level of creative inspiration in the session.

• They will be able to use the techniques to understand and release their own unique talents in a better way.

• They will realise that not only are they capable of being far more creative, but will be able to inspire others to do the same.

• They will understand what creativity really means to them and how it is a way of thinking that is available to them.

• They will understand and be able to use lateral thinking techniques and be able to run a successful brainstorming meeting.

• They will be inspired to apply what they have learnt.

• They will have had fun and been thoroughly engaged.

• They will want to learn more and will want to arrange sessions for their teams.

Actions. What would you expect them to do as a result of your session?
• They will be able to easily implement the different approaches to problem solving, brainstorming and ideas generation.

• They will have the confidence to try new things, understanding the possibilities and benefits of their own creative thinking.

• They will understand how design works and how to go about working with their brand.

Contact Ayd today to discover how you and your business will benefit from being able to create more innovation in every aspect of your operations and to get your sales and marketing message out there in a clearer, more powerful way.

Call +44(0)1865 779944